Yi Leaf Zhang

Dr. Yi Leaf Zhang is a Professor in the Department of Higher Education, Adult Learning, and Organizational Studies at the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA), within the College of Education. She coordinates the Ph.D. program in K-16 Educational Leadership and Policy Studies (ELPS). Her research focuses on improving college access and success, particularly through community colleges as pathways to STEM education, transfer student experiences, and international education. She has authored nearly 50 peer-reviewed publications and secured grants from NSF, Greater Texas Foundation, and others. Dr. Zhang serves on editorial boards for journals like the Journal of Community College Review and has received multiple awards for research and teaching, including Excellence in Research and Teaching Awards from UTA’s College of Education.

Education:

• PhD in Educational Leadership, Iowa State University (2011)
• MS in Communication Studies, Fort Hays State University (2005)
• BS in Business Management, Fort Hays State University (2004)
• BA in Business English, Zhengzhou University (2003)

Research Interests: Dr. Zhang’s work centers on community colleges as STEM gateways, transfer student success, and international education. She emphasizes data-driven policy recommendations and has explored topics like part-time faculty impacts, post-disaster recovery, and student advising strategies. Her recent articles analyze factors influencing STEM degree attainment and the role of high-impact practices in student success.

Grants & Awards: Key grants include a $452k NSF CAREER grant (2017–2024) and a $265k Greater Texas Foundation grant studying endorsement programs. Her awards span excellence in teaching, research, and doctoral mentoring, reflecting her commitment to both scholarly and pedagogical excellence.

Advising & Service: She mentors numerous Ph.D. students and chairs dissertation committees. Her service roles include faculty senate membership, editorial board positions, and leadership in committees like the UTA Tenure & Promotion Committee. She also co-directs the Center for Educational Research, Policy, and Practice.